Is this latte art the work of the Devil?
When serving up a flat white, cappuccino or a latte, what piece of carefully crafted artwork do you expect to see on your drink?
A heart?
A swan?
Perhaps it is something a little more extravagant that is worthy of being seen in the UK Barista Championships (which are taking place this weekend as luck would have it).
Well, for one customer of a well-known American coffee chain, a barista tried his hand at something that was devilishly unique.
In fact, you could say what was etched onto her order was a rather beastly creation.
Or you could proclaim that no harm was meant and there is nothing to get worked up about.
Unsurprisingly, it has hit media headlines across the world and sparked a war of words.
All over two cups of coffee.
Here is what happened.
Megan Pinion, a teacher, received the two coffees she had paid for and was left outraged when she noticed that a pentagram and the number 666 were emblazoned on the top of her drinks in syrup.
It would seem that it was the work of a bored barista, and not the spawn of Satan, but the actions of the Louisiana worker has caused a right old stir amongst internet commentators.
Talking online, Megan Pinion reasonably claimed: “I am in no way judging his beliefs or dis-meriting his beautiful artwork, I am however judging his lack of professionalism and respect for others.”
But after sharing her snapshot online, the story has spread with picket lines being drawn on either side of the polarising debate. On one side people claim it was a reprehensible act, the other camp state it was simply the work of barista suffering from boredom.
Those inhabiting the middle ground have been drowned out by the commotion caused by the comments.
For baristas and coffee shop owners be careful what adorns your coffee, unless you want to be in the epicentre of a PR storm!
Though if it was caused by a case of daemonic possession there may be nothing anybody can do!